Catalyzed sulfur dioxide release system for controlled fumigation of postharvest crops and related methods
OwnerCarlos Crisosto, Gayle Crisosto +1inventors
InventorsCarlos Crisosto, Gayle Crisosto, Curtis Granger
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Abstract
A moisture-activated sulfur dioxide (SO2) release system is disclosed for postharvest preservation of fruits, vegetables, and other fresh plant products. The system comprises a composition including sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) and citric acid that, upon exposure to humidity, rapidly generates SO2 gas to suppress fungal growth. Various deployment systems enable immediate or sustained release based on packaging conditions and crop type. The system provides a safer alternative to traditional SO2 fumigation, and provides improved decay control and extended shelf life.
Claims16
A system for deploying a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating composition in harvesting containers, storage containers, and shipping containers, comprising:
- a. a dry composition comprising sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) and citric acid configured to react upon exposure to moisture to release SO2 gas;
- and
- b. a deployment mechanism that houses or incorporates the dry composition, wherein the deployment mechanism is configured for placement in a container for transporting fresh produce to control the release of SO2 gas over time within the container.
A system for controlling mold and rot in postharvest produce, comprising:
- a. a container for housing harvested whole produce;
- and
- b. a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating composition in a deployment mechanism having a moisture permeable outer surface in proximity to said harvested whole produce, wherein the composition comprises sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) and citric acid.
A system for deploying a sulfur dioxide (SO2)-generating composition in harvesting containers, storage containers, and shipping containers, comprising:
- a. a composition comprising sodium metabisulfite (SMBS) and citric acid configured to react upon exposure to moisture to release SO2 gas, wherein the composition comprises a ratio of SMBS to citric acid that is no higher than about 3:2;
- and b. a deployment mechanism that houses or incorporates the composition, wherein the deployment mechanism is configured to control the release of SO2 gas over time within a container for holding whole fresh produce.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.